Nelson Mandela: Quotes to Change the World

Nelson Mandela changed the world with his actions, and he'll forever inspire the world with his words. Here are 23 statements from Madiba that breed hope and motivate action.

Perseverance
"It always seems impossible until it's done."

"Difficulties break some men but make others. No axe is sharp enough to cut the soul of a sinner who keeps on trying, one armed with the hope that he will rise even in the end."

"I can rest only for a moment, for with freedom come responsibilities, and I dare not linger, for my long walk is not yet ended."

"Part of being optimistic is keeping one's head pointed toward the sun, one's feet moving forward. There were many dark moments when my faith in humanity was sorely rested, but I would not and could not give myself up to despair. That way lays defeat and death."

"I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, bu he who conquers that fear."

"Everyone can rise above their circumstances and achieve success if they are dedicated to and passionate about what they do."

"Do not judge me by my successes, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again."

"After climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb."

"The greatest glory in living lies no in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."

Leadership
"Lead from the back -- and let others believe they are in front."

"Real leaders must be ready to sacrifice all for the freedom of their people."

"I like friends who have independent minds because they tend to make you see problems from all angles."

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."

Dignity
"If I had my time over I would do the same again. So would any man who dares call himself a man."

"Resentment is like drinking poison and then hoping it will kill your enemies."

"A fundamental concern for others in our individual and community lives would go a long way in making the world the better place we so passionately dreamt of."

"For to be free is not merely to cast off one's chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others."

"A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination."

"No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite."

"When a man has done what he considers to be his duty to his people and his country, he can rest in peace."